Top 5 Things to Know About the Blue Ridge Parkway

1-You're not stuck with it. It might feel that way at first since
this is the first time AT hikers have had to share the ridge (and
not just a summit) with the road. However, after Bearwallow
Gap there is relatively little contact with it. A cluster of three
crossings near Apple Orchard and one crossing below the
Punchbowl for the next 112 miles to Rockfish Gap.

2-Some of Virginia's finest. With the lone exception of the
highlands, this section of trail is as good as any in VA. Both sides
of the James River are exceptional as are Cold Mt and both sides
of the Tye.

3-Original AT route. Because the Blue Ridge Parkway follows
the original AT route and because BRP is less constrained about
opening up viewpoints, walking the Parkway has its rewards.
The downside is that roadwalking gets really old really fast.

4-Not out of the woods. Did YOU see any ice cream places listed?
Well, you didn't and there aren't any. That doesn't happen until
Shenandoah and you need to plan accordingly.

5-It's not the downward spiral (yet). Hikers are often conflicted
about the encroachments of civilization. Most welcome, the
opportunity to travel a bit lighter thanks to a few near-the-trail eating
spots while decrying the lack of dramatic scenery. Fear not. Moral
collapse is just around the corner but you're not there yet.